Courses
Bachelor of Arts (Performance Studies)
The Performance Studies course at Curtin University is the longest established tertiary level theatre and performance training course in the state. This major in the BA Communication and Cultural Studies degree, provides students with critical skills, theoretical understanding and practical training and experience in the fields of historical and contemporary theatre and performance. The range of units and training available to undergraduate and postgraduate students cover areas of theatre and performance practice, including performance, directing, writing, devising, dramaturgy, critical analysis, stage management and theatre production.
Skills and knowledge acquired in course work are given practical application in the extensive production program presented in the School's theatre. Students are given many opportunities to audition for and participate in public productions with the on-campus Hayman Theatre Company. There are six major productions each year ranging from Shakespeare to contemporary Australian or International works. Each year ends with one of the famous Hayman Theatre pantomimes. In addition to these major performances students also present and manage weekly lunchtime theatre and Sunday Night theatre programs.
The course is taught by practising theatre professionals who specialise in performance, directing, writing and design.
Although not a vocational course in the conventional sense, Performance Studies at Curtin has produced many successful professionals. These include popular film and television performers such as Frances O'Connor (MANSFIELD PARK, AI), Mandy McElhinney (MDA, THE BANK), Kate Atkinson (BLUE HEELERS, SEA CHANGE), Claire Hooper (GOOD NEWS WEEK) as well as successful local theatre actors such as Michael Loney, Caroline Mackenzie, Gibson Nolte and James Sollis. Other graduates include playwrights Mary Morris, Luke Milton, Kate Mulvany and Ingle Knight and directors Adam Mitchell, Marcelle Schmitz, Simon James and Shidan Majidir. Still others are prominent on the boards of local theatre companies and on the committees of theatrical organisations. Equally important are the many students who have gone on to become teachers of theatre at many of WA's state and private schools, or into theatre management or promotions work. Staff are always willing to talk to prospective students and their parents so please feel free to email or call for further information.
Enquiries
School of Media Culture and Creative Arts
Carly Parker
Phone: +61 8 9266 7140
Email: c.parker@curtin.edu.au
General enquiries: +61 8 9266 7211
International Students
Apply to:
International Office
Curtin University
GPO Box U 1987
Perth 6845
Tel : +61 8 9266 7331
